Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus
Two iconic churches in the heart of Cusco
Opposite the Plaza de Armas, two buildings dominate the urban landscape and history of colonial Cusco: Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. Both represent the city’s transformation following the arrival of the Spanish and reflect the blend of Inca heritage and European architecture.
Visiting these churches not only allows you to admire their beauty, but also to understand how Cusco went from being the capital of the Inca Empire to one of the most important colonial cities in South America.
Cusco Cathedral: symbol of colonial power and faith
It was built between the 16th and 17th centuries on the remains of the ancient Inca palace of Viracocha, using large stone blocks from Sacsayhuamán. This detail alone reflects the profound symbolism of the conquest and the imposition of the new colonial order.
Inside, the cathedral houses one of the most important collections of colonial religious art in Peru. Highlights include paintings from the Cusco School, gilded altarpieces, carved wooden altars, and religious sculptures of great historical value.
One of the most curious and talked-about elements is the famous representation of The Last Supper, where Jesus and his apostles share a guinea pig, a symbol of Andean culture integrated into Christian art.
What to see inside Cusco Cathedral?
When touring the cathedral, it is worth paying attention to:
Paintings from the Cusco School
Baroque altars and altarpieces
Side chapels with sacred art
The choir and carved wood details
Colonial religious objects in the adjoining museum
The visit usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on the visitor’s interest.
The Church of the Society of Jesus: elegance and Andean Baroque
Located directly opposite the cathedral, the Church of the Society of Jesus was built by the Jesuits in the 17th century. For a long time, it was considered one of the most beautiful churches in Cusco and, for some, even more impressive than the cathedral.
Its façade is an excellent example of Andean Baroque, with rich and balanced ornamentation. Inside, the altars carved in wood and covered in gold leaf stand out, as well as religious paintings of great artistic quality.
The church reflects the power and influence that the Jesuit order had in Cusco during the colonial era.
What to see inside the Church of the Society of Jesus?
During the visit, you will be able to appreciate:
Richly decorated Baroque altars
Well-preserved colonial paintings
Architectural details of great precision
A more intimate and less crowded atmosphere
Many travelers enjoy the visit for its aesthetic beauty and because it is quieter than the cathedral.
Practical information for your visit
Location
Both churches are located in Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, making them very easy to visit on foot.
Opening hours
Generally open during the day.
Hours may vary due to masses or religious events.
Admission
The Cathedral usually requires an admission ticket.
The Society of Jesus also charges a separate admission fee.
Tip: Check schedules and prices on the day of your visit.
Tips for visiting both churches
Visit in the morning or mid-afternoon to avoid crowds.
Wear appropriate clothing (covered shoulders).
Take time to observe the artistic details.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the Plaza de Armas
Consider a guided tour if you are interested in history
Visiting Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus provides a better understanding of the city’s history, art, and cultural identity. Together, they represent two of the most important monuments of colonial Cusco and are a must-see for any traveler who wants to learn about the past and present of this ancient city.
Comparison between Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus
Although both are located opposite the Plaza de Armas and form part of Cusco’s colonial heritage, Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus offer visitors different experiences.
The Cusco Cathedral stands out for its historical and symbolic significance. It is larger, more solemn, and houses a more extensive art collection, making it a key visit for those who wish to understand religious and political power during the colonial era. Its interior conveys a sense of solemnity and historical weight.
For its part, the Church of the Society of Jesus tends to surprise visitors with its aesthetic harmony and decorative richness. Its Andean Baroque style, both on the façade and inside, is especially appealing to those who enjoy art and architecture. In addition, it is usually less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful visit.
Both churches complement each other and together offer a more complete view of colonial Cusco.
Is it worth visiting both churches?
Definitely yes. Visiting both Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus provides a better understanding of the city’s history, art, and cultural evolution. Each offers a different perspective: one more institutional and monumental, the other more artistic and detailed.
Visiting them together, in the same setting of the Plaza de Armas, helps to contextualize the role that religion and architecture played in the transformation of Cusco after the conquest. For any traveler interested in the history and identity of the city, both visits are highly recommended and significantly enrich the experience in the historic center.